PURPOSE: To demonstrate that capacitors store electrical energy.
DESCRIPTION: A 3500 microfarad capacitor is charged to 100 volts using the battery pack. Touch the capacitor terminals to the copper contacts on the battery pack (photograph at left); check that the polarity is correct, this is an electrolytic capacitor. Discharging the capacitor with the large screwdriver (photograph at right) produces a very loud BANG. Scare the whatever out of your students: tell them to listen carefully for the sound before discharging the capacitor.
SUGGESTIONS:REFERENCES: (PIRA 5C30.20)
EQUIPMENT: 3500 microfarad capacitor, 100 volt battery pack, large beat-up screwdriver.
SETUP TIME: None.
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